INTERFACE MESSAGE PROCESSORS FOR THE ARPA COMPUTER NETWORK
Abstract
The basic function of the IMP (Interface Message Processor) computer network is to allow large existing time-shared (Host) computers with different system configurations to communicate with each other. As there will not always be a direct link between two Hosts that wish to communicate, individual IMPs will, from time to time, perform the function of transferring a message between Hosts that are not directly connected. This then leads to the two basic IMP configurations - interfacing between Host computers and acting as a message switcher in the IMP network. IMPs regularly measure network performance and report in special messages to the network measurement center. Provision of a tracing capability permits the net operation to be studied comprehensively. An automatic trouble reporting capability detects a variety of network difficulties and reports them to an interested Host. Self-contained network operation is designed to protect and deliver messages from the source Host to the destination Host.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0699946
Entities
People
- Frank E. Heart
Organizations
- BBN Technologies